Bing, alongside Interim Chief Chester Logan, announced the appointment of two new assistant chiefs — Paul Welles, who previously served as deputy chief over the Criminal Investigations Bureau, and Janice Butler, who was reappointed after retiring in July.

Welles is a 27-year veteran of the department, and Butler served for 25 years before retiring, according to the city.

"These changes represent a continuation of my efforts to transform the police department to make it more efficient and effective at reducing crime and to better serve the citizens of Detroit," Bing said.

Bing said a new chief likely won't be appointed for another three to four months. The Board of Police Commissioners is using two firms to interview applicants and narrow the field of candidates, from which the mayor will appoint a chief subject to City Council approval.

Officials also announced a shuffling of deputy chiefs to other bureaus, the promotion of a commander to deputy chief, the startup of police academy classes in early 2013 to replenish patrol officers and the studying of administrative jobs within the department in an effort to get more officers out from behind desks and onto the streets.

As well, Logan said 113 reserve officers are prepared to enter the police academy.

"The restructuring of the department will enhance our abilities to reduce crime and address quality of life issues," he said.